Latest international surveys attest that Hong Kong’s zero tolerance for corruption has continued to make the city a clean environment for doing business. The “2017 Index of Economic Freedom”, by US-based Heritage Foundation, praised Hong Kong for its “excellent track record in combating corruption.” The Berlin-based anti-graft watchdog Transparency International placed Hong Kong the 15th least corrupt place among 176 countries and territories (2016 Corruption Perceptions Index). It’s three places up from previous year. The TRACE Matrix (TM), by international anti-corruption consultancy TRACE International, ranked Hong Kong 4th among 199 countries and territories with the least corruption risk. Hong Kong's Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is committed to fighting corruption through effective law enforcement, education and prevention to help keep Hong Kong fair, just, stable and prosperous.

Law & order

Crime rate hits record low

Hong Kong's overall crime rate for 2016 dropped 8.7% y-o-y to 60,646 cases, the lowest level since 1978. Hong Kong’s Secretary for Security T K Lai said last year’s law and order situation was satisfactory, with decreases recorded in deception, criminal damage, criminal intimidation, violent crime and theft cases.

Arts & Culture

Jin Yong Gallery showcases creativity and impact

The Jin Yong Gallery, named after renowned Hong Kong martial-arts novelist Dr. Louis Cha (pen-name Jin Yong), opened at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum on Feb 28. His literary works have had a far-reaching impact on local popular culture and global Chinese literature. The first-of-its kind gallery showcases the creative process behind the wide-ranging impact of Jin Yong’s martial arts novels through manuscripts, early edition novels and personal effects.

22nd ifva to be held March 9-19

From Mar 9 through 19, the 22nd ifva will be held to provide a platform for showcasing different visual cultures and exploring the endless potential of creative media in short films, animation and media arts. Organized by the Hong Kong Arts Centre, it offers a host of programs, ranging from exhibitions to the ifva Awards presentation.

New Music from Hong Kong concert on April 8

Celebrate the blend of East and West with music premieres from some of Hong Kong’s most talented up-and-coming composers. Acclaimed instrumentalists Linda Chatterton (flute), Rachel Brandwein (harp) and Aristo Sham (piano) will premiere works by Wendy Wan-Ki Lee, Austin Yip, Galison Lau and others. The concert at the DiMenna Center for Classical Music (450 W 37th St, NY, NY) is presented by HKETONY and forms part of the 20th anniversary programs. For free tickets, please register here: Eventbrite.com, while tickets last.

Sports

Hong Kong cyclist wins first gold medal

Yang Qianyu won the first gold medal for Hong Kong in the Women's Elite - Individual Road Race at the 37th Asian Road Cycling Championships in Bahrain on Feb 28. Secretary for Home Affairs Lau Kong-wah congratulated Yang on her achievement, lauding her exemplary performance.

Basic Law

Hong Kong and its Basic Law

The Basic Law (BL) is the constitutional document of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Put into effect on July 1, 1997, it enshrines within a legal document the important concept of “One Country, Two Systems".

Q: Can foreign enterprises still participate fully in Hong Kong's economy?A: Yes. Hong Kong welcomes and encourages the participation of foreign enterprises, and provides a level playing field for all. There are no foreign exchange controls in Hong Kong and no restrictions on the trading of gold, securities, futures or the like. The Basic Law stipulates that Hong Kong shall maintain the status of a free port, pursue the policy of free trade and safeguard the free movement of goods, intangible assets and capital. (BL Articles 112; 114; 115)